Hosting an outdoor dinner party on a budget

by Jan Kennemer 06/25/2023

If you want to throw an outdoor dinner party without blowing your budget, you have plenty of options to consider. From DIY projects to efficient food planning, there are plenty of outdoor dinner party ideas that don’t require outrageous spending. 

Before you start planning your next outdoor event, consider trying these simple tips:

Prepare for your outdoor party

The right preparation is crucial for not blowing your budget. Buying the necessary items in advance rather than leaving them until the last minute will give you more options to choose from, prices included.

To save money on food, consider making your dinner party a potluck. If you choose to go this route, make sure you give your guests plenty of time to prepare a dish.

Repurpose an old table & chairs

Instead of spending a fortune on new outdoor furniture, consider repurposing indoor items. An old table and some mismatched chairs add charm to your backyard dinner party while also keeping you within your budget.

Do you have an old dresser or vanity gathering dust? With a quick sanding and a fresh coat of paint, either piece could make a perfect miniature buffet table or drink station for outdoor dining.

Use string lights for illumination

The best outdoor parties have excellent lighting and ambiance. The simplest and most affordable way to create beautiful outdoor lighting is with basic string lights. Install a few hooks in the wall, or hang them from a pergola for a twinkling sky effect. 

Even if you don’t have structures to hang lights, you can use them for beautiful ambiance and illumination. Create firefly lanterns with mason jars or larger glass containers and arrange them throughout the outdoor space to add some magic.

Outdoor events can be fun and affordable with the right planning. Consider your menu ideas, table setting and decor carefully to save money while throwing the best backyard dinner party possible.



About the Author
Author

Jan Kennemer

Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.